Energy Secretary Chris Wright Warns Iran Conflict and Strait of Hormuz Disruptions Will Delay Price Declines Despite Signs of Peak
U.S. consumers may face prolonged pressure at the pump as geopolitical tensions in the Middle East continue to disrupt global energy markets, with Energy Secretary Chris Wright signaling that gasoline prices are unlikely to fall below $3 per gallon until next year.
Speaking on the State of the Union, Wright suggested that while fuel prices may have peaked, sustained relief hinges on the resolution of the ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran—a confrontation that has already sent shockwaves through global oil supply chains.
“At some point, we’ll get back there,” Wright said, referring to sub-$3 gasoline prices. “But that could be later this year, or it may not happen until next year.”
The primary flashpoint remains the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow yet critical maritime corridor that transports roughly 20% of the world’s oil supply. Since hostilities escalated, Iran has intermittently restricted access to the strait, triggering volatility in crude oil markets and pushing U.S. gas prices sharply higher.
According to AAA, the national average for regular gasoline has surged to approximately $4.04 per gallon—up from $2.90 on Feb. 1, based on data from GasBuddy. The rapid increase underscores the sensitivity of U.S. energy prices to geopolitical disruptions, particularly in oil-dependent supply routes.


